Faculty Sponsor

Jana Stedman

College

College of Nursing & Health Professions (CONHP)

Department/Program

Physician Assistant Program

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Summer 7-22-2026

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the current evidence regarding the human health effects associated with exposure to oxybenzone (benzophenone-3) containing sunscreen in individuals using sunscreen products. This review examined outcomes, including systemic absorption, endocrine function, and reproductive health, while considering established benefits of sunscreen for skin cancer prevention.

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed publications identified through PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Valparaiso University library database. Selected studies included systematic reviews, meta-analyses, pharmacokinetic studies, observational studies, and toxicological research. Literature evaluating systemic absorption, endocrine disruption, reproductive health effects, biomonitoring data, and regulatory safety assessments was critically appraised and synthesized to identify current evidence and clinical implications.

Results: The reviewed literature consistently demonstrated that oxybenzone is systemically absorbed following topical sunscreen application, with plasma concentrations frequently exceeding the U.S. Food and Drug Administration threshold, warranting additional safety evaluation. While experimental and animal studies suggest endocrine-disrupting activity, human studies have produced inconsistent findings regarding clinically significant reproductive, thyroid, and hormonal effects. Existing evidence does not establish a definitive causal relationship between routine sunscreen use containing oxybenzone and adverse health outcomes.

Conclusion: Although systemically absorbed, current evidence does not demonstrate a definitive causal relationship between typical oxybenzone exposure and adverse human health outcomes. Given the well-established role of sunscreen in preventing ultraviolet-induced skin damage and reducing skin cancer risk, the benefits of sunscreen use continue to outweigh the currently identified risks associated with oxybenzone exposure.

Keywords: Oxybenzone; benzophenone-3; sunscreen; systemic absorption; endocrine disruption; reproductive health

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Madelyn Landsteiner has clinical interests in pediatrics, primary care, emergency medicine, and plastic surgery. Following graduation, she plans to relocate to Oahu, Hawaii, where she will begin her career as a Physician Assistant. She will be presenting her graduate project, "Oxybenzone in Sunscreen: Examining Human Health Implications," which reflects her special interest in dermatology, particularly skin cancer prevention, dermatologic diseases, and promoting evidence-based patient education on sun protection and skin health.

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